Women in Music

There are various challenges female musicians face, such as lack of representation, sexism and sexual harassment, issues connected to child care and maternity rights. Navigating the music industry as a woman has it’s specific challenges.

Guidance & advice

Sample Policy

Menopause at Work

A template to help employers in the music sector support people experiencing symptoms of the menopause.

Maternity, Adoption and Parental Rights at Work

Guidance pack on pay, leave and other rights at work for musicians who are becoming parents.

Sample policy

Breastfeeding at Work

This sample policy for breastfeeding at work is designed for anyone working in the music sector.

Gender and women's rights in the workplace

Rights of Women

Legal advice and support for women

Parental Grant for MU Members

Grants of £275 are available to both male and female MU members.

Harassment & discrimination

#ProtectFreelancersToo

End Sexual Harassment at Work

Join the call for stronger protections from sexual harassment at work that protect freelancers too.

Report in confidence

MU Safe Space

A safe space for musicians to share instances of sexism, sexual harassment and sexual abuse at work.

Sexual Harassment at Work

Get legal and practical advice on appropriate behaviour at work, find help resources and find out how to develop a Sexual Harassment Policy.

For employers

Music Sector Code of Practice

Find out about our joint music sector code of practice and which music organisations already signed up for it.

Latest news and features

Explore the latest on the issues of gender discrimination in music.

Women trade unionists and activists holding banners and flags as they parade down the street.

MU to Attend Women Chainmakers’ Festival ‘25

The annual Women Chainmakers’ Festival is a family friendly event in Cradley Heath on 28 June, bringing together trade unions and community groups to celebrate the success of women in the workplace.

Published: 14 May 2025

A stack of Kayla's 'Fractures' albums, signed and ready to be posted.

Member’s Voice: Kayla Painter on the Rewards of Self-Releasing Music

In this blog, MU member, educator, producer, and electronic musician Kayla Painter shares her experience of self-releasing music. Following the success of her album launch last year, she explores the ups and downs of the DIY route, offering invaluable firsthand advice to other members.

Published: 15 April 2025

Xenia, Hayley, Fiona and Joy together at Conference.

Two MU Motions on AI and Parenting Passed at TUC Women’s Conference 2025

Four MU delegates attended this year’s TUC Women’s Conference, where Union motions on the responsible use of AI, and better pay in relation to pregnancy and parenting were both passed.

Published: 27 March 2025

Ankna singing into a microphone on stage.

Ankna Arockiam for Women’s History Month: “Women’s Voices are Crucial in Shaping the Future of our Industry”

In our fourth and final blog for Women's History Month 2025, vocalist Ankna Arockiam explores the challenges women in the music industry face, her work around higher education and activism, and how joining the MU opens up opportunities for a more inclusive industry.

Published: 26 March 2025

Keychange Announces 2025 Cohort for Talent Leadership Programme

Keychange, a movement dedicated to addressing underrepresentation in music, has announced the new participants in its 2025 Talent Leadership Programme. The cohort, which includes the MU’s own ED&I Officer Diljeet Bhachu, will collaborate to drive transformative change within the industry.

Published: 25 March 2025

Menopause in Live Music: LIVE and MU to Host Online Panel

The Musicians' Union is partnering with LIVE (Live music Industry Venues & Entertainment) to host a webinar and panel on the menopause and how it can affect people working in the live music industry.

Published: 19 March 2025

Sarah Mellor for Women’s History Month: “Everyone Should Feel Valued and Appreciated in Their Place of Work”

In our third blog for Women's History Month 2025, professional singer and MU member Sarah Mellor explores the values needed to build and sustain a truly accessible, inclusive music industry.